Method and apparatus to combine biometric sensing and other functionality
A multispectral system is disclosed that can image a biometric features as well as secondary objects or environments. In some embodiments machine readable information and a biometric images can be imaged using a multispectral systems disclosed herein. Such systems can be used to implement a number of processes that can include secondary authentication, alternate authentication, two-factor authentication, one-time authentication, etc. Some embodiments of the invention provide for greater functionality in a fingerprint reader in order to variously increase security, increase user convenience, decrease system size, decrease system complexity, decrease system cost, increase system throughput or transaction speed, provide alternative authentication, record and/or confirm the identity of a person.
Latest Lumidigm, Inc. Patents:
This application is a non-provisional, and claims the benefit, of commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/155,651, filed Feb. 26, 2009, entitled “Method and Apparatus To Combine Biometric Sensing and Other Functionality,” the entirety of which is herein incorporated by reference for all purposes.
BACKGROUNDFingerprint sensors typically require contact between the skin and sensor in order to capture an image. Such fingerprint sensors use various means to acquire an image of the fingerprint including capacitive, RF, thermal, ultrasound, mechanical, and optical methods. Optical sensors used for acquiring fingerprint images typically comprise an imager, one or more illumination sources, a platen, optical components such as lenses and mirrors, and other parts. It can be common to arrange the imaging system such that the angle of the imaging axis with respect to the platen at the interface where the finger touches the sensor is greater than the critical angle. This arrangement ensures that the finger-platen interface appears reflective to the imager when no finger is present, due to total internal reflectance (TIR) effects at the platen-air boundary. In such cases, the imager is able to detect an object only when a portion of the object with a sufficiently high index of refraction comes in optical contact with the platen surface. At these points of contact, the TIR sensor is able to detect a relative change in the reflected illumination light intensity, which can be a relative darkness or brightness depending on the specific arrangement of the illumination and imaging optics. This spatially varying change in the reflected light intensity is the basis for forming a fingerprint image. Under such conditions, the TIR sensor is unable to effectively capture images from most other objects that are placed near the sensor. As such, a TIR fingerprint sensor and most other types of fingerprint sensors cannot be used to acquire images from non-fingerprint objects such as barcodes, documents, machine readable characters and the like.
BRIEF SUMMARYEmbodiments of the present invention provide various functionality for multispectral imaging beyond biometric functions. Embodiments can include using a multispectral system to both collect biometric data as well as collect other images. These other images can include images of the ambient environment, machine readable data, bar codes, multispectral materials, etc. Moreover, in some embodiments, techniques are provided for two factor authentication, temporary authentication, onetime authentication, authentication for enrollment, limited time authentication, alternative authentication, etc.
In some embodiments, systems and methods are disclosed that includes an illumination source, an imaging system, and a controller. The controller can be interfaced with the illumination source and the imaging system; and can include various instructions. The controller can include instructions to illuminate a purported skin site of an individual using the illumination source. Instructions can be included that derive an image of the purported skin site from light received by the imaging system after scattering from the purported skin site. The controller can also include instructions to illuminate an object different from a skin site using the illumination source, and derive an image of the object from light received by the imaging system after scattering from the object. The object can include machine readable data with or without multispectral material.
In some embodiments, systems and methods are disclosed that includes an illumination source, an imaging system, and a controller. The controller can be interfaced with the illumination source and the imaging system; and can include various instructions. These instructions can cause the system to illuminate an object comprising machine readable data under a plurality of distinct optical conditions during a single illumination session. Instructions can also derive a multispectral image of the machine readable data from light after scattering from the machine readable data for each of multiple of the plurality of distinct optical conditions.
Some embodiments can include a method that illuminates machine readable data under a plurality of distinct optical conditions; receives light scattered from the machine readable data separately for each of the plurality of distinct optical conditions; and determines whether the machine readable data is fraudulent. The machine readable data can include a barcode and/or optically variable material or features. Moreover, the same imager can be used to receive light scattered from a skin site. A biometric function can then be performed with the image of the skin site.
In some embodiments, a multispectral barcode is provided. A multispectral barcode can include a substrate, a barcode disposed on the substrate, and a multispectral feature disposed on the substrate. The substrate can include a key fob, a plastic card, a business, card, a document, a license, a passport, a ticket, a business card, an id badge, etc. In some embodiments, a multispectral barcode can be replaced with any type of machine readable data. Moreover, the multispectral feature can include a feature printed with color changing dyes, a hologram, etc.
In some embodiments, two factor authentication techniques are provided. In some embodiments, a method can be used where a first object is illuminated at a target site with an illumination source. A first image of the first object can be derived from light received by an imaging system after scattering from the object. A second object can be illuminated. A second image of the second object can be derived using the same illumination system. An authentication function that uses the first image and the second image can be used for authentication purpose. In some embodiments, data can be extracted from the first object and it can be determined whether the extracted data corresponds with features of the second image. For example, a biometric template can be extracted from the first data and it can be compared with biometric data from the second image. In other embodiments, the extracted data can include a pointer to a memory location that includes data for comparison, such as a biometric template.
In some embodiments, a system is disclosed that includes an illumination source; an imaging system; and a controller interfaced with the illumination source and the imaging system. The controller can include instructions to illuminate an object with machine readable data at a target site with the illumination source, wherein the object includes machine readable data. Instructions can also be included that derive an image of the machine readable data from light received by the imaging system after scattering from the purported skin site. The controller can include instructions to extract a message from the image of the machine readable data; and instructions to alter the operational mode of the system in response to the message extracted from the image.
The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.
Embodiments disclosed herein provide for greater functionality in a fingerprint reader in order to variously increase security, increase user convenience, decrease system size, decrease system complexity, decrease system cost, increase system throughput or transaction speed, provide alternative authentication, record and/or confirm the identity of a person from whom a measurement of alcohol concentration is made, or provide for other such advantages.
The terms “multispectral sensor” and “multispectral system” are used herein to mean an optical system that is configured to collect multiple, different images of a finger, palm, hand or other object during a single session. A multispectral system can include a multispectral sensor, which acquires biometric data and secondary data, and a computer with instructions to process the biometric data and/or secondary data in some way. resolutions, or any combination of the aforementioned. Imaging under a plurality of distinct optical conditions during a single illumination session is referred to herein as “multispectral imaging”. The set of all images collected under a plurality of distinct optical conditions during a single illumination session is referred to herein as “multispectral data” or “multispectral images”. The different optical conditions can include different illumination wavelengths, different polarization conditions, different illumination angles, different imaging angles, different focal distances, different imaging resolutions, or any combination of the aforementioned. In some optical conditions, the resulting images are significantly affected by the presence and distribution of TIR phenomena at the interface between the sample and the platen. These images are referred to herein as “TIR images.” In some optical conditions, the resulting images are substantially unaffected by the presence or absence of TIR effects at the platen. These images are referred to herein as “direct images”.
The term “finger print sensor” is being used in this disclosure to represent all biometric sensors that acquire images and other data associated with the dermatoglyphic patterns and other patterns on the skin. Such biometric sensors include but are not limited to single-finger fingerprint sensors, multi-finger (e.g., 2- or 4-finger) fingerprint sensors, palm sensors, and/or whole-hand sensors. Similarly, the term “finger” is used to represent all possible skin sites including finger pad, The term “dermatoglyphic image” is used herein to describe images of skin. A dermatoglyphic image can include a fingerprint image a hand print image, an image of multiple fingerprint, a thumbprint image, a footprint image, etc. Moreover, while various embodiments are described with reference to finger images and/or fingerprints, any other type of skin based physical characteristic can be substituted.
The term “multispectral material” is any material that provides a response that varies with changes in any of the following: illumination angle, illumination wavelength(s), imaging angle, imaging wavelength(s), polarization, etc. Similarly, the term “multispectral feature” is any feature that provides a response that varies with a change in any of the following: illumination angle, illumination wavelength(s), imaging angle, imaging wavelength(s), polarization, etc. Images of multispectral materials or multispectral features differ when illuminated under different multispectral conditions. Ex'amples of multispectral material or multispectral features can include holograms, color-changing inks or paints, optically variable inks or paints, polarization sensitive paints, inks and other material, spectral and/or textural characteristics of the substrate or a laminated cover, and other such features. Holograms and optically variable ink can be particularly sensitive to angles of illumination and/or imaging, though other aspects of multispectral conditions can give rise to significant signals that are also used in the present invention While reference may be made to a specific multispectral material and/or multispectral feature in this disclosure, any multispectral material and/or multispectral feature may be substituted and used. The term “multispectral material” can also be described as an “optically variable material,” and the term “multispectral feature” can also be termed an “optically variable feature.” Thus, “optically variable” can describe the condition of providing an optically different response depending on the illumination and/or imaging conditions. The term “multispectral content” refers generally to any of “multispectral material”, “optically variable material,” and/or “multispectral feature”.
“Machine readable data” is a term used herein to indicate an image of some kind that can be acquired by a multispectral sensor and/or contains elements that can be interpreted by the multispectral system in a meaningful and deterministic way. Images containing machine readable data are generally capable of producing substantially the same extracted data (e.g. message, command, bit sequence, etc) from instance to instance after appropriate processing is applied to the image. If the image is too corrupted to extract the information incorporated in the machine readable data (due to noise, dim lighting, non-uniform light, glare, distortions, etc) an error is generally reported. In contrast, images that do not contain machine readable data may be processed and interpreted in various ways, but the information so extracted is generally tested for similarity to a reference and exactness isn't expected. For example, a biometric image of some kind may have biometric features extracted from it but those features are typically compared to a compatible reference set of features to determine degree of statistical similarity rather than a binary assessment of match/no-match.
Examples of machine readable data can include a 1D or 2D binary barcode, a 1D or 2D color barcode, machine readable text, ordinary text to which optical character recognition (OCR) may be applied, holographic barcodes, barcodes fabricated with color changing ink, barcodes fabricated with polarization sensitive material, or other forms. The term “barcode” is used throughout the disclosure as one example of machine readable data, but the term is not meant to be limiting and any other type of machine readable data may be used equivalently. Indeed, while many embodiments are described in conjunction with a barcode, any type of machine readable data can be substituted.
Barcodes can contain information describing an image (such as a fingerprint image) or the biometric characteristics of, for example, a fingerprint (such as locations, direction and/or types of minutiae in the fingerprint). Such characteristics may be combined in a single data structure, which is referred to as a “biometric template” or just “template”. Barcodes can contain information such as creation dates or timestamps, valid-until dates, encryption keys, pointers to entries in certain databases, account information such as transaction amounts and account balances, digital signatures, sensor commands, and other such information. In some embodiments, barcode information can be encrypted using a variety of symmetric and asymmetric techniques and algorithms as known in the art. In some embodiments, an image of the barcodes may be acquired by the multispectral system using a plurality of imaging conditions. In other embodiments, an image of the barcodes may be acquired by the multispectral system using a single imaging condition.
A multispectral system may be used for fingerprint imaging. Fingerprint images can be acquired either when the finger is in contact with the sensor or not in contact with the sensor but within the field of view of the multispectral sensor. When the multispectral system is not being used to acquire and process fingerprint biometric information (or in some cases in conjunction with such acquisition), the multispectral system may be configured to conduct a second function. Some examples of a second function can include acquisition of image/video for surveillance, wake-up, audit, and/or log-out; acquisition of secondary or alternative biometrics; acquisition of secondary or alternative authorization; acquisition of biometric credentials for subsequent authentication; acquisition of instrumentation mode settings; acquisition of ambient lighting conditions; etc.
Most conventional fingerprint sensors use some form of imaging technology that requires contact between the finger and the sensor to produce an image. Common fingerprint imaging technologies include capacitive, radio-frequency, thermal, ultrasound and optical sensors based on total internal reflectance (TIR) imaging. In all such cases, when a suitable sample (e.g. a fingertip) isn't touching the sensor, the sensor is unable to acquire images of nearby objects. In many cases, even if an object other than a finger is in contact with a conventional fingerprint sensor, the sensor is still unable to acquire images of the object since certain important object characteristics are different than what the sensor is designed to acquire (e.g. different impedance in an RF sensor, different index of refraction in a TIR imaging sensor, etc). In contrast, a multispectral fingerprint sensor can be an optical sensor that is designed such the angle between the imaging axis (or axes) and the platen-finger interface is less than the optical critical angle for some or all of the images acquired. In this way, substantially no TIR effects are present in the imaging system and the imager can see objects that are not in contact with the sensor but still within the field of view and in a plane with suitable degree of focus (or the focus may be adjusted according to the position of the object).
Multispectral SystemEach imager may also include various optical elements 135. While three optical elements 135 are shown for each imager, any number including zero may be used. These optical elements can include lenses, filters, Bayer filters, CYMG filter, RGBE filter, polarizers, etc. A single or multiple illumination sources can be used. In
Platen 110 can be constructed of a glass, plastic, or other material that is fully or partially transparent under the optical conditions used in multispectral system 100. Platen 110 can be a flat sheet or multi-dimensional structure with multiple facets and/or faces at various angles. Platen 110 can also be constructed to accommodate a single finger, multiple fingers, an entire hand, or other physical characteristics. In some embodiments, platen 110 can be removed and multispectral system 100 can be a contactless imaging system.
Acquisition of Image/Video for Surveillance, Wake-Up, Audit, and/or Log-Out
In some embodiments, a multispectral system can be used to collect and store images of the local environment acquired at some point before or after a fingerprint is acquired. For example, a multispectral system may be installed at a sensitive biometrically-controlled access point that can serve to authorize pharmaceutical dispensing within a hospital, or can serve to authorize physical entry into a secure facility, or can serve to authorize access to a terminal that authorizes high-value monetary transactions within or between financial institutions. In some embodiments, the multispectral sensor can acquire snapshots or video data for some period of time prior to and/or after biometric authorization and store or transmit these images in some form. At a later point in time, such image data can be retrieved and reviewed to further confirm identity and/or actions of people present proximal to the time that the biometric transaction was conducted. Multispectral sensors used for such purposes can have optical components such as optical zoom mechanisms, scanning mechanisms, mirrors and other such elements to enable such additional imaging functionality.
Alternatively, the acquisition of image or video data may occur at some pre-specified time interval when the sensor is not being used to acquire biometric data. As such, the multispectral sensor can act as a surveillance device capable of recording information about the local scene. Such image information can be processed by a computer processor (e.g., the computation device shown in
At block 215 if a biometric is captured, process 200 can move on to block 220, or else process 200 returns to block 210. For example, the biometric can include a fingerprint, iris print, hand print, etc. The biometric can be recorded using any combination of multispectral illumination and/or imaging techniques. At block 220 the biometric data can be stored in memory. In some embodiments, the biometric data can be stored as one or more multispectral images. In other embodiments, the biometric data can be stored as minutiae locations, directions, and/or types or any other type of mathematical formulation representing the recorded fingerprint. At block 225 the ambient environment recorded prior to the fingerprint being captured is stored in long-term memory. In some embodiments, this can include copying the image or images from a short term memory location to a long term memory location. In some embodiments, the ambient environment images can also be linked or classified to indicate an association with the fingerprint. In some embodiments, time and/or location stamps can be included with the ambient environment images. At block 235, the ambient environment can again be imaged for a set period of time and the images stored at block 240. At block 245 a function is performed with the biometric data. This function can include, for example, identification of the user, validation of the user, and/or authentication of the user. At block 250 process 200 can end. In some embodiments, rather than ending, process 200 can return to block 210.
In some embodiments, various blocks shown in process 200 can be removed or rearranged. For instance, in some embodiments, only the ambient environment prior to collecting the biometric may be saved. Also, various amounts of ambient environment images can be stored. For example, the ambient environment can be imaged for one, five, or ten or more minutes before and/or after the biometric is captured. The corresponding images can be stored in long term memory. In other embodiments, more or fewer minutes of ambient environment images can be stored in memory.
In another embodiment, the acquisition of image(s) or video data by the multispectral system may be triggered by some event. For example, a multispectral system mounted in the interior of a transportation vehicle (e.g., car, truck, boat, plane, train, farm or construction vehicle, etc.) can trigger the recording of information when an external door handle is activated. Alternatively, the multispectral system can begin recording image or video data when an impact or other extreme maneuver of the transportation vehicle is detected. In some cases, the multispectral system can collect image information and write such information to a circular buffer of some size in a continuous manner. In such a case, when a triggering event occurs, the contents of the circular buffer can be stored in long term memory or transmitted, providing a means to record information from a period of time prior to a triggering event. Additional image data may also be recorded during the triggering event as well as for some period of time afterward.
If the triggering event has not occurred as determined at block 410, process 400 continues to block 425. At block 425, if a biometric is captured, then process 400 continues to block 430, otherwise process 400 returns to block 410. In some embodiments, a delay or timeout can occur prior to returning to block 410. At block 430 biometric data can be processed and/or written to memory. Following block 430 some type of decision or function can be implemented based on the biometric. For example, at block 435 process 400 can determine if the biometric is sufficient to validate the user. If validation does not occur then process 400 returns to block 410. If validation does occur, the access is allowed at block 440 and process 400 returns to block 410.
In another embodiment, a multispectral system may record and/or process video data to provide motion detection. When motion is detected, the multispectral system may provide a “wake up” signal that may be used by the multispectral system as well as for other subsystems and services. For example, a multispectral system mounted by the entry into a building might cause nearby lights, illuminated signs, indicators and the like to turn on when motion is detected. The multispectral system might be used to detect such motion using one or more illuminators which may be visible or infrared LEDs. Alternatively, the multispectral system may use ambient light for such motion detection in cases where ambient light is sufficient for such functionality.
In another embodiment, a multispectral system can be used to monitor the local area after a proper authentication. In such cases, the multispectral system may acquire and analyze a video stream or series of images acquired periodically to determine when the user has left the immediate vicinity of the sensor, which may be used to provide authorization to use a device such as a computer, a shared workstation, a terminal, an ATM, a control console, or other such devices. At the point in time when the user leaves the immediate vicinity of the multispectral sensor, the multispectral system may trigger a log-off event or other such signal that might, for example, cause data displayed on a monitor to be erased, over-written, or otherwise obscured. Similarly, such event might log the user out of the associated computer system, workstation, terminal services, or console and may then require a re-authentication in order for a user to access any system services.
Acquisition of Secondary or Alternative BiometricsIn some embodiments, the multispectral sensor may be used to acquire biometric information other than information from the fingerprint (handprint, palmprint, etc). For example, the multispectral system can acquire biometric information from the iris, the face, and/or from the shape of the fingers or hand. One or more of these biometric modes may be used to identify or confirm identity of the person using the multispectral system. Such biometric matching may be combined with the fingerprint biometric in some way to enable the multispectral system to operate as a multi-biometric system, or such biometrics may be used as an alternative to the fingerprint biometric. Moreover, various embodiments of the invention are described by referencing fingerprint biometrics, though other biometrics can be substituted for fingerprint biometrics.
Acquisition of Secondary or Alternative AuthorizationIn cases where a fingerprint image from an authorized user isn't available or otherwise doesn't match any fingerprint previously recorded, the user may provide to the multispectral system a barcode(s) that can be used as an alternative means to gain access to a system or service. For example an authorization message could be contained within some barcodes acquired by the multispectral sensor. In some embodiments, some or all of the information contained in the barcodes may be encrypted and can require decryption by the multispectral system prior to the granting of authorization. In some embodiments the encryption/decryption method may be specific to a particular multispectral sensor and/or subset of multispectral sensors, such that only the particular multispectral sensor and/or the subset of multispectral sensors can decrypt the information in the barcode.
In some embodiments, the barcode may contain data that specifies a certain period of time (or can be used to specify such period of time) for which the authorization can be valid. Authorization can be granted if the time is less than a certain absolute date or a certain period of time has elapsed since the first use of the alternative authorization. In another embodiment, a particular alternative authorization message can be used a specified number of times before becoming invalid. In some embodiments, an alternative authorization may only be used for a single authorization, after which it becomes invalid. One means to accomplish a single-use authorization is to include a number as part of the barcode message. The sensor may check to see if the number encoded in the barcode message matches the next authorized number stored by the sensor. If so, the authorized number contained in the sensor may be updated by, for example, incrementing a counter. In so doing, the current barcode will no longer provide a valid means of authorization. A valid means would be required to contain the new current authorization value matching that stored in the sensor.
In some embodiments, an arbitrary image; drawing, barcode, photograph or other object may be used as an alternative to an authorized fingerprint. In this way, such arbitrary object may be enrolled or otherwise designated as an alternative means of authorization. In some embodiments, the same arbitrary object may then be presented at a later date and matched to the previously enrolled image of the arbitrary object to gain alternative authorization. In some embodiments, the statistical characteristics of the arbitrary object may be determined and recorded. In such cases, later acquisition of a similar arbitrary object by the multispectral system may be performed and authorization granted if the statistical characteristics of the two objects are sufficiently similar. Texture matching algorithms and other means known in the art may be used to determine the degree of statistical similarity image data to an enrolled image an
In some embodiments, the barcodes can be produced such that photocopies or scans of the barcodes will not provide the proper data. In some embodiments, barcodes can include multispectral material or features.
In contrast,
The differences shown between
There are many other equally applicable methods that can be used to determine the presence or absence of multispectral features within a set of multispectral data and this code or this method is not intended to be limiting in any way.
In order to determine the authenticity of a barcode by determining the presence or absence of multispectral features, the source of the multispectral features can be physically coupled with the barcode as tightly as possible. For example, if the barcode 505 and holographic backing 510 were laminated with a tamperproof clear cover, such cover would prevent the removal and replacement of the barcode 505 on the substrate 510. Alternatively, the substrate on which the barcode is located could be “optically plain” (i.e. not a multispectral material), but the laminated cover might have holographic security features incorporated in it as known in the art. Another alternative is to use holographic material to make a portion or all of the barcode itself. Two means of doing so are illustrated in
In general, the use of a holographic barcode as shown in
In some embodiments, a multispectral system can be used in a vehicle such as a truck, automobile, airplane, boat, train, fork lift, farm vehicle, construction vehicle and other such vehicles in lieu of keys or key fobs. A multispectral system can be used to allow a user (or users) to gain access to the vehicle and/or start the vehicle in multiple ways. For example, when a biometrically enrolled user presses the button or places a finger on the dashboard, the user's fingerprint can be imaged and the vehicle started if an authorized match occurs. In the event that user isn't biometrically enrolled or the enrolled biometric feature isn't available, a key fob with a barcode and/or multispectral material can also be used as an alternative authorization to gain access or start the vehicle. Key fobs 700, 720, 740 and 760 shown in
At block 815, the process can determine if the object is a finger or a barcode. Moreover, any type of biometric can be substituted for a fingerprint. If the object is a finger, the image of the fingerprint is processed at block 820. Analysis of the fingerprint can include multispectral analysis, minutiae analysis, etc. At block 825, process 800 can determine whether the user is authorized by determining if the fingerprint matches previously enrolled fingerprints. If the user is not authorized, process 800 can end at block 835. At block 830 an authorized function can be performed if the user authorized, and then process 800 can end at block 835. In some embodiments, process 800 can return to block 810 rather than ending at block 835. At block 830, the performed function can vary based on the user or level of authentication provided to the user. The function can include, for example, starting a machine, process, computer, automobile, airplane, boat, or phone. The function can include, for example, opening a door to a safe, home, business, automobile, briefcase, airplane, boat, etc. Various other functions can be used.
If, however, at block 815 a barcode is imaged, then process 800 moves to block 850. At block 850, if the barcode is expected to contain security markings, it can be determined whether the barcode is counterfeit or not. For example, a barcode can be printed with or placed near or on or covered by multispectral material. A multispectral analysis of the barcode can determine whether the barcode is counterfeit or not. Examples of some counterfeit determining techniques are provided within this disclosure. If the barcode is counterfeit, then process 800 ends at block 835. If the barcode is not determined to be counterfeit or if no security markings are expected to be present on the barcode (e.g. when displayed on a cellular telephone), then process 800 proceeds to block 855. At block 855 the barcode can be analyzed and the message decrypted. Process 800 then proceeds to block 825 where authorization can be determined based on decrypted message.
In Situ Biometric EnrollmentIn some embodiments, alternative authorization may be combined with biometric authorization. For example, in the case of a biometrically controlled rental car, a barcode may be presented to the multispectral sensor in order to gain initial authorization and to trigger a biometric enrollment sequence. In another example, a piece of biometrically controlled equipment or a vehicle such a forklift in a factory may require that a barcode be presented to provide an initial authorization and trigger a biometric enrollment sequence.
Process 900 begins at block 905. When the multispectral system is activated by some means process 900 determines if a finger or a barcode is presented to the sensor. This can be done by acquiring a single image or a multispectral image set and processing it to determine which type of object is present. Alternatively, a switch or other means can be used to indicate to the sensor which type of object is present. When a finger is presented, multispectral biometric data can be acquired (if not acquired already) and processed at block 915. Processing in this step may include biometric feature extraction and matching of minutiae data, pattern data and/or other means of biometric processing known in the art. The biometric features are then matched against the enrolled features to determine the degree of match between the present finger and any authorized enrollments. In the event that a match is determined at block 920, a function is performed at block 925. In some embodiments, process 900 can be used in a biometrically controlled vehicle, in such embodiments the function in block 925 can include authorization to start the vehicle and/or actually starting the vehicle and/or adjusting various settings of the vehicle according to user preferences. In some cases, the settings may include setting upper speed limits and other such characteristics for certain authorized drivers of the vehicle. In some embodiments, process 900 can be used by a biometrically controlled piece of equipment. In such embodiments, the equipment may commence operations or be authorized to commence operations. In some embodiments, process 900 can be used by a biometrically controlled automated teller machine (ATM). Functions performed at block 925 can include a deposit and/or a withdrawal, and/or various other banking processes. Other biometrically controlled applications will have analogous authorization to proceed with further functions.
Returning to block 910. If it is determined that a barcode is being presented to the system, process 900 proceeds to step 935. An image of the barcode can be acquired (if it hasn't already been acquired). At block 935, the authenticity of the barcode can be determined. In some embodiments, the barcode can further be decoded into a message. If the resulting message is encrypted, the message may be decrypted. The authenticity of the barcode (if determined) and/or the decrypted message (if encrypted) can then be used in step 940 to determine if the barcode is authorized. If not, then process 900 can ends at block 930. However if the barcode is authenticate and/or the message is proper, then process 900 can enter enrollment mode at block 945. During enrollment at block 945, the user may place his/her finger(s) on the sensor one or more times during which time the multispectral images are acquired and processed to extract biometric features. These biometric features can be recorded as enrolled and authorized biometric features. During this time user preferences (if applicable) may also be recorded. After block 945, the function can be performed at block 925 as described previously. Process 900 can then end at block 930. In some embodiments, process 900 can return to the initial state 905 rather than end at block 930. After this procedure, the user is biometrically enrolled in the system and may use the system with just his/her biometric as described in blocks 915, 920, and 925. In some embodiments, the biometric enrollment may be erased after a specific period of time or certain number of uses, requiring that an authorized barcode be presented to reactivate the enrollment procedure.
Two-Factor BiometricsIn some embodiments, the acquisition of barcodes of proper form and/or meeting other constraints can be required for authorization in addition to collecting a fingerprint that matches an authorized fingerprint. Generally, such a requirement may be termed as “two-factor” authentication and is generally perceived to offer greater levels of security than either of the factors alone. In some cases, the barcode may contain an identifier of some kind that enables the multispectral system to select among a plurality of enrolled fingerprints and perform that fingerprint match against the enrolled fingerprint so selected. For example, the barcode may contain an address or pointer to an entry in a database of enrolled and authorized biometric features. The enrolled biometric features are then compared to the biometric features collected on the multispectral sensor taken near in time to the presentation of the barcode. In the event that the biometric features match those features indicated by the barcode, then authorization can be granted.
In other cases, the biometric matching may be performed using a local database or other means not directly facilitated by the barcode. However, final authorization is provided only after the biometric is confirmed to match the enrolled biometric AND a valid barcode is presented to the system.
Biometric BarcodesIn one embodiment of the present invention, an image of a fingerprint or key characteristics thereof (e.g. minutiae locations, directions and types) may be contained in barcodes that are presented to and acquired by the multispectral system. Before, during, or after such acquisition of the barcodes, the multispectral system may also acquire a fingerprint from a living finger. The fingerprint from the living finger may then be processed in some way (e.g. extraction of features such as minutiae information or pattern information) which is then used to perform a biometric match against the biometric information contained in the barcode. In the event that the two biometrics are determined to match, some action may be taken such as providing an authorization signal. Other biometrics such as face and/or iris may be similarly recorded, acquired and matched by the multispectral system.
Identification card 1000 can also include various multispectral features.
In one embodiment of the present invention, barcodes may be acquired by the multispectral sensor which contain messages or code that sets, resets, or alters the operating mode of the multispectral system. For example, a barcode may contain an encrypted message that may cause the multispectral system to go into a diagnostic mode, allowing access to information and settings that can aid diagnosis and repair of the system. In some embodiments, such barcodes may cause the multispectral system to go into a supervisory mode, allowing access to functions such as database enrollment and un-enrollment, de-authorization, auditing, system programming, acquisition and/or copying of encryption keys, setting of system parameters, and other such actions. In some embodiments, such barcodes may cause the multispectral system to reset and/or reinitialize, which may include erasing some or all previously enrolled biometric data and/or other authorized data. In some embodiments, a certain barcode may be used to enable the multispectral sensor to undergo a one-way initialization during, for example, after the sensor is manufactured and before or during installation at the customer site or application.
Acquisition of Ambient Lighting ConditionsIn one embodiment of the present invention, the multispectral sensor may acquire information about the ambient lighting condition while not being used to acquire a fingerprint image (or collect such information in conjunction with a fingerprint image). The multispectral system may then process the ambient light conditions and take an action accordingly. For example, in some cases, the multispectral system may increase illumination light levels when the ambient light levels are relatively high and decrease illumination light levels when ambient light levels are relatively low. In some embodiments, ambient light levels can be detected and interior lighting, dashboard lighting, and/or headlights can be adjusted accordingly.
Embodiments of Tangible Barcodes and Forgery Detection ThereofIn some cases, the barcodes may be printed on an identification card such as a laminated card issued by a business or government agency. In some cases, the barcodes may be on a card such as a driver's license. In other cases, the barcodes may be printed on a piece of paper by a LaserJet printer, inkjet printer, impact printer, or other such means. In some cases, the barcodes may be printed on a substrate with an adhesive backing. Such substrate may be adhered in other convenient locations such as the back of an electronic fob, on the back of a driver's license, or on an identification card of some kind. In some cases, such substrate may be designed to tear upon removal or contain other features to thwart tampering as known in the art.
In some cases, some form of forgery detection may be included with the barcodes or with the substrate that the barcodes is printed on, or with the laminate cover placed on top of the printed barcodes. In some cases, forgery detection may be performed directly by the multispectral system using images acquired by the multispectral sensor. In some cases, forgery-detection may use features such as watermarks, color-changing links, holograms, micro-text, spectral and/or textural characteristics of the substrate or a laminated cover, and other such features. Two examples of forgery detection are provided below:
Color-Changing InkVarious embodiments of the invention can use multispectral material or multispectral features. Color-changing or optically-variable ink can be used as one example of a multispectral material or feature. In some cases color changing inks change colors as a function of imaging angle or illumination angle. Such ink is used currently on some US paper currency as well as many other currencies throughout the World. As an example, a portion of a genuine United States twenty dollar bill using color changing inks and a color copy is shown in
Differences between the three multispectral images can be seen and quantified in a multitude of ways.
This analysis maps differences in the images due to different illumination angles to changes in hue and saturation values. Color changing ink thus shows a large amount of change as a function of illumination angle. Hence, the resulting hue and saturation values vary a great deal. The ink in a color copy of a genuine bill does not change much with respect to illumination angle. Accordingly, the corresponding hue and saturation plot shows little change. Such changes may be used to determine whether a particular substrate is genuine or a forgery attempt.
White-Light HologramsA multispectral system can be used to detect forgeries using white light holograms in the a manner similar to process 1200 described in
In some embodiments of the invention, a multispectral system can image both biometric data and documentation. In some embodiments, the multispectral system can incorporate a whole-hand sensor that is large enough to also capture images of documents and/or barcodes. Such systems can be used, for example, at airports to capture biometrics and passports. Multispectral systems can provide counterfeit detection and can mitigate document capture errors such as glare.
In addition to the polarized and unpublicized direct illumination LEDs, the system may also comprise an illumination state that uses light from LEDs that illuminate an edge of the platen. A portion of this light is trapped within the platen because of total-internal-reflectance (“TIR”) phenomena and propagates through the platen. At points where the skin is in contact with the platen, the TIR effect is negated and light is able to enter the skin. Some of the light is diffusely reflected back out of the skin into the imaging system, producing an image of the contact regions.
While not shown in the embodiment of
In addition, various alternative embodiments of the structure shown in
Moreover, multiple wavelengths and multiple illumination angles can be used. The platen can be designed to have an area to capture hand prints as well as documents. For example, the platen can have a 6 inch by 9 inch capture area. In some embodiments, high resolution images can be produced of an entire hand. Such resolution can provide substantial information that can be used for secure authentication.
In some embodiments, document capture can provide counterfeit detection.
Thus, process 2000 for reading and authenticating machine readable documents along with biometric data is shown in
In some embodiments of the invention, a barcode can be used to established authorization for use for a specific period of time. For example, a machinist may be trained for operation of a specific machine. The machinist can simply scan their barcode that can include biometric information, time for authentication, and/or machine preference data. Each morning the machinist can scan their barcode and gain access to the machine. Throughout the day, when the machinist uses the machine, he can simply provide his finger for a biometric image and the machine can allow access. Access can be reset every shift, every hour, every day, etc. and require another barcode scan. Moreover, if the machinist requires periodic training, the barcode can include information specifying the date or time when authentication ceased.
An example of timing process 2200 is shown in flowchart form in
At block 2225 a fingerprint (or any other physical characteristic) of the user can be imaged and biometric template created. A comparison between a biometric template received from a barcode (e.g. at block 2215) and this biometric can be made at block 2230. If they do not match, authorization is denied and process 2200 ends at block 2250. If they do match, process 2200 checks, at block 2235 whether the time is within the allowed access time. For example, by comparing the current time with a time received from the barcode and stored in memory. If the time has expired, process 2200 ends at block 2250. If the time has not expired, then access is allowed at block 2240. In some embodiments, two time periods can be captured: The amount of time a user is authorized to gain access in one period of time, and/or the amount of time the between uses before the expire and requiring another scan of the user's barcode.
Digital BarcodesIn some embodiments described herein, barcodes may be presented to a multispectral sensor in digital form. For example, barcodes, may be displayed on a handheld device such as a cell phone, PDA, net book, laptop, or other such device as shown in
In some embodiments, the digital barcodes may contain a time stamp, time marker or some other means to limit the duration and/or the number of uses of such information to gain authorization or to be used in conjunction with gaining authorization.
In some embodiments, a business or other organizational entity may have a database of employees and/or other individuals who are authorized certain access. This database can include biometric data. The business may further have biometric data corresponding to each employee. Periodically, perhaps nightly, such business may send barcodes to the authorized cell phones of authorized individuals. Such barcodes may contain the authorized biometric information in a form usable for subsequent two-factor biometric matching. Alternatively such barcodes may provide a means of alternative authorization. In either case, such barcodes may be usable for a specified period of time or just during a specified time interval. In some cases such barcodes may just be usable during business hours during the day following the sending of such data. Upon receipt, an authorized individual may present the barcodes to the multispectral sensor using their authorized cell phones. In the event that the barcode contains an alternative authorization message, the authorization may be granted after the message is received and perhaps decrypted by the multispectral system. In the event that such barcodes contains biometric data (e.g., fingerprint data) the individual seeking authorization may then present their finger to the multispectral sensor wherein a fingerprint is acquired. The multispectral system then determines the degree of similarity between the two fingerprints. In the event that the two fingerprints are determined to be sufficiently similar, authorization may be granted by the multispectral system or other such actions may be taken.
One-Time AccessIf, however, at block 2315 it is determined that a barcode was imaged, process 2300 can first extract an authorization code from the barcode at block 2340. Extracting codes or messages from barcode can include one or more of the following. In some embodiments, it can first be determined whether the barcodes is counterfeit as described elsewhere in this disclosure. In some embodiments, a message can be decoded from the barcode. In some embodiments, this message can be the authorization code or part of the message can include the authorization code. In other embodiments, the message can be encrypted, thus decryption can be used to produce the authorization code from the message.
At block 2345 it can be determined whether code is a valid one-time authorization code. This determination can occur by using a mathematical process to determine whether the one-time code is authorized. For example, all one-time authorization codes can have the same checksum. In other embodiments, a number of the one-time codes can be saved in memory and a comparison between the code and the one-time codes in memory can occur to determine if the code is authorized. In some embodiments the one-time code may contain a simple numeric value that is incremented after each use. In some embodiments, if the code is authorized, then the one-time code in memory can be deleted and/or flagged as previously used. In some embodiments, the code can be saved as a previously used one-time code. Regardless of how previously used one-time codes are indicated, at block 2350 it can be determined if the code has been previously used by referencing one of these memory locations. If the authorization code has previously been used, then access is denied. Otherwise process 2300 proceeds to block 2325.
If the user is validated then a one-time authorization message can be produced. For example, a general message (or one of many general messages) that indicates that the user is authenticated or that can allow access can be used. In some embodiments, the authorization message can be a bitmask message. In some embodiments, the authorization message can be retrieved from a set of authorization messages and/or can be a previously unused authorization message. In some embodiments, the authorization message can be encrypted with a private key or with another cryptography method. The message can then be encoded within, for example, a barcode. The barcode can then be sent to the user at block 2445. For example, the barcode can be sent to the user's device, address or number on file. An image of the barcode can be presented by the user to the multispectral system at block 2450. At block 2455 the image can be read by the multispectral system and the message can be decrypted using a public or private key or other cryptography method. If the message is an authorized message as determined at block 2460, then the user is allowed access at block 2460. If the code is a one-time code then the multispectral system can flag the one-time code as used and deny access to future users using the same code. In some embodiments, an internal counter can keep track of the next usable authentication message.
Two Factor AuthenticationSome authentication policies require two factor authentication. That is an authentication scheme where two different factors are used in conjunction to authenticate a user. In some embodiments, two factor authentication can be initiated using a multispectral system.
In some cases, some or all of the barcodes used by a multispectral system may be encrypted in some manner. In some cases the encryption may be a symmetric encryption, using a single, secret key to encrypt and decrypt the information. In some cases the encryption may be asymmetric encryption using an encryption key pair which is usually described as a public key and private key pair. For example, the barcodes may be encrypted using a public key. Once the multispectral system acquires the barcodes, the encrypted data may be decrypted using the proper private key, which may be securely contained in the multispectral system. In some cases the private key may be unique to a particular multispectral system or may be the same as some other group of multispectral systems which enables interchangeable operation within a designated subset of multispectral systems but not necessarily across all multispectral systems. In some cases a combination of symmetric and asymmetric encryption may be used to, for example, transmit a symmetric key by encrypting it using asymmetric encryption. Digital signing and other such uses of encryption as known in the art may also be incorporated in the barcodes and/or multispectral system.
Physical Embodiments of a Multispectral SystemIn some cases, the multispectral system may be a self-contained unit containing an illumination subsystem, the imaging subsystem, the platen, the computational system and memory, and all other necessary components for self-contained acquisition and processing of said MI data. In some embodiments, the computational system and/or the memory and/or some portion of each may exist outside of the unit containing the rest of the multispectral system. In some cases, the external computational system and memory may be a host computer.
In another embodiment, the multispectral system may use a window or other suitable piece of glass, plastic or other material as the platen. For example, a multispectral sensor intended for use by people wishing to gain access into a transportation vehicle may be mounted in such a way that one or more sections of the external window glass of the transportation vehicle are used as the platen. Similarly, external windows of businesses, houses and other structures may be so used. Also, protective glass in front of tellers and the like may be used in a similar manner. In all such configurations, the illumination, imaging and computational subsystems of the multispectral sensor may be mounted on or near the interior side of the glass in proximity to the location to be used by the user and oriented such that the illumination subsystem illuminates through the glass and the imaging subsystem images through the glass. In use, the user may place a finger on the external window surface for a period of time to collect MI biometric data. Such configuration of the multispectral system may also be used to acquire barcodes and/or other biometric modalities.
Multispectral System Coupled with Alcohol Measurement
In some embodiments of the present invention, the MI fingerprint sensor may be built into a system that also includes an alcohol measurement system or a system for measuring one or more other such substances that might be ingested and present within the skin and/blood. This disclosure uses the terms “alcohol” and “alcohol measurement” merely to be representative of all such measurements and the term are not intended to be limiting in any way.
In some embodiments, the alcohol measurement system may be based on diffuse reflectance spectroscopy of the skin or of the nail bed. In some embodiments, the diffuse reflectance alcohol measurement may be made on the top (dorsal) surface of the finger or hand. During the same measurement session, a multispectral sensor may be positioned to collect the biometric information from the bottom (ventral, palmar) surface of the finger or hand. In this way, the identity of the person on whom the diffuse reflectance measurement is being made is closely coupled with the acquisition of identifying features. In other embodiments, the alcohol measurement may be made on the ventral side of the finger or hand, while the biometric measurement may be made on the dorsal side of the finger or hand based on, for example, hand shape or characteristics of the nailbed, or other such measurements. Other configurations that combine diffuse reflectance measurements of alcohol with biometric measurements made on the same body part at nearly the same time are also possible as one knowledgeable in the art would understand. In some cases, both measurements may be processed in such a way that authorization is granted only in cases where two conditions are met: 1) the measured alcohol concentration is at or below a certain level and 2) that the biometric features acquired from the finger or hand are sufficiently similar to such features previously recorded for an authorized user.
Computational DeviceIn such embodiments, an imaging subsystem may include an imager 2610, a processor 2615, and memory 2620. In other embodiments, an imaging subsystem 2604 may also include light sources and/or optical elements. Imaging subsystems 2604 may be modular and additional imaging subsystems may be easily added to the system Thus, biometric sensor subsystems may include any number of imaging subsystems 2604. The various imaging subsystems, in one embodiment, may be spatially modular in that each imaging subsystem is used to image a different spatial location. The various imaging subsystems, in another embodiment, may be multispectrally modular in that each imaging subsystem is used to image a different multispectral condition. Accordingly, in such an embodiment, an imaging subsystem 2604 may also include various optical elements such as, for example, color filter arrays, color filters, polarizers, etc and/or the imager 2610 may be placed at various angles relative to the imaging location. The various imaging subsystems, in another embodiment, may provide focus modularity in that each imaging subsystem is used to image a different focal point or focal plane.
The hardware elements may include a central processing unit (CPU) 2650, an input/output device(s) 2635, a storage device 2655, a computer-readable storage 2640, a network interface card (NIC) 2645, a processing acceleration unit 2648 such as a DSP or special-purpose processor, and a memory 2660. The computer-readable storage 2640 may include a computer-readable storage medium and a computer readable medium reader, the combination comprehensively representing remote, local, fixed, and/or removable storage devices plus storage media for temporarily and/or more permanently containing computer-readable information. The NIC 2645 may comprise a wired, wireless, modem, and/or other type of interfacing connection and permits data to be exchanged with external devices.
The biometric sensor system 2600 may also comprises software elements, shown as being currently located within working memory 2660, including an operating system 2665 and other programs and/or code 2670, such as a program or programs designed to implement methods described herein. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that substantial variations may be used in accordance with specific requirements. For example, customized hardware might also be used and/or particular elements might be implemented in hardware, software (including portable software, such as applets), or both. Further, connection to other computing devices such as network input/output devices may be employed.
Computational unit 2600 can be used to carry out processes shown in any of the figures and described in the specification. Specific instructions and/or program code can also be stored in memory 2618 or 2612 and executed by CPU 2602.
SUMMARYAs described above multispectral system can be used for various applications. Fingerprint sensors are used as one component of an overall solution to provide access to physical spaces or devices (“physical access”) or logical devices and services (“logical access”). In some cases a fingerprint sensor that is used for physical access may be built into a terminal that contains a keyboard, touch pad, touch screen and/or a card reader. The keyboard, touch pad or touch screen may be used by the user to input a PIN, user name, or password in conjunction with or as an alternative to providing a fingerprint image in order to gain access to the equipment, area, room or other entity that is protected by the physical access system. In some embodiments, physical access can include gaining access to the interior of an automobile and/or starting an automobile.
In addition or alternatively, an identification card may be read by an associated card reader to further aid proper identification and authorization of the user prior to granting access. This card reader may read a card that encodes information magnetically or electronically in nonvolatile memory or some other means. The card may further be a contact based card or contactless card that is read through an RF signal or other means. The card may further be a simple static card or a smart card capable of being read, written and/or performing some computations within the card itself.
A physical access system may further comprise a surveillance system. Such surveillance systems may comprise one or more cameras viewing one or more scenes. The images from such cameras may be archived for later retrieval or may be analyzed manually or automatically or through some combination of the two methods. The surveillance images may be analyzed to detect people, baggage, motion and/or visual anomalies in the scene or scenes being viewed.
A fingerprint sensor used for logical access may be incorporated in a personal computer that is one of a variety of configurations including desktop, laptop, rack mount, etc. The computer may act as a server, a cloud computer, a host system or a client system in a networked environment, or it may be a free-standing system in a non-networked system configuration. In any case, the fingerprint sensor may be incorporated with the computer in some fashion. Further, it may be necessary to enter a PIN, user name, or password into the computer in conjunction (before, during or after) acquiring a fingerprint image in order to access the system, network, and/or service(s). Additionally or alternatively, the fingerprint reader may be further combined with a keypad, touch screen, touch pad, and/or a card reader just as in the case of the physical access scenario described above.
In some cases, fingerprint systems are unable to acquire a fingerprint image from a properly authorized user that is suitable for matching to another prerecorded fingerprint. This may be due to the condition of the skin (worn, dry, damaged, wet, dirty), to the unavailability of the previously recorded finger (missing or otherwise unavailable), the presence of muscle tremors, and other such occurrences. In such cases, fingerprint systems require a “work-around” such as allowing the user to use a simple password to gain access. In the cases where the system in attended, such work-around cases may require the intervention of a supervisor, guard or other authorized individual to manually confirm the user's identity, which may increase system cost and/or complexity while reducing applicability and/or security.
A biometric system that incorporates a fingerprint sensor may further comprise other biometric sensors to collect other biometric modalities and combine the biometric information in some way prior to granting access. Such multi-biometric systems may, for example, comprise of a fingerprint sensor and an iris sensor and a facial imaging system. Images from each of the biometric sensors may be analyzed to match against data contained in a database of some kind to produce match values for each of the modalities that may then be combined in some way to determine a final match value.
In many embodiments of the invention biometrics or secondary credentials can be used to gain access to something. Access can be provided for example, to machinery, an automobile, a secure area, computer programs, computer databases, a boat, an airplane, a building, a mobile phone, a mobile computing device, a rental car, etc. Moreover access can include starting a car, starting a machine, initiating preset preferences, starting a process, engaging or releasing a mechanism, performing a function, etc.
Claims
1. A system comprising:
- an illumination source;
- an imaging system; and
- a controller interfaced with the illumination source and the imaging system, the controller including: instructions to illuminate a purported skin site of an individual using the illumination source; instructions to derive an image of the purported skin site from light received by the imaging system after scattering from the purported skin site; instructions to illuminate an object different from a skin site using the illumination source; and instructions to derive an image of the object from light received by the imaging system after scattering from the object.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the image of the purported skin site comprises an image of dermatoglyphic patterns of the skin site.
3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the instructions to illuminate the purported skin site further comprises instructions to illuminate the purported skin site under a plurality of distinct optical conditions.
4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the instructions to derive an image of the purported skin site further comprises instructions to derive a multispectral image of the purported skin site from light scattered from the skin site for each of the plurality of distinct optical conditions.
5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the instructions to illuminate the object further comprises instructions to illuminate the object under a plurality of distinct optical conditions.
6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the instructions to derive an image of the object further comprises instructions to derive a multispectral image of the object from light scattered from the skin site for each of the plurality of distinct optical conditions.
7. The system according to claim 1 further comprising instructions to determine whether the object is fraudulent from the image of the object.
8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the object comprises an optical security marking.
9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the optical security marking comprises an optical security marking that is optically variable.
10. The system according to claim 8, wherein the optical security marking comprises a hologram.
11. The system according to claim 8, wherein the optical security marking comprises optically color shifting ink.
12. The system according to claim 1, wherein the object comprises machine readable data.
13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the machine readable data comprises a barcode.
14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the barcode is either a one dimensional barcode or a two dimensional barcode.
15. The system according to claim 12, wherein the machine readable data is imaged from a portable electronics device display.
16. The system according to claim 12, wherein the machine readable data comprise data that is optically variable.
17. The system according to claim 12, wherein the machine readable data comprises either or both of a hologram and a color shifting ink.
18. The system according to claim 17, wherein the hologram is an element of the machine readable data, is part of a substrate upon with the machine readable data is printed, or is part of a laminate covering the machine readable data.
19. The system according to claim 12, wherein the machine readable data comprises data selected from the group consisting of machine readable text and ordinary text.
20. A method comprising:
- illuminating a skin site of an individual using an illumination system;
- deriving a skin site image of the skin site of an individual from light scattered from the skin site of the individual using an imager;
- performing a biometric function with the skin site image;
- illuminating machine readable data using the illumination system; and
- deriving a data image from light scattered from the machine readable data using the imager.
21. The method according to claim 20, wherein the imaging a skin site of an individual comprises imaging dermatoglyphic features of the skin site.
22. The method according to claim 20, wherein the imaging the skin site provides a multispectral image and the biometric function is performed using the multispectral image.
23. The method according to claim 20, wherein the imaging machine readable data provides images of a security marking.
24. The method according to claim 20 further comprising determining whether the machine readable data is fraudulent.
25. The method according to claim 20 further comprising determining whether the machine readable data is fraudulent by analyzing the multispectral content of the multispectral image.
26. The method according to claim 20 further comprising extracting a message from an image of the machine readable data.
27. A system comprising:
- an illumination source;
- an imaging system; and
- a controller interfaced with the illumination source and the imaging system, the controller including:
- instructions to illuminate an object comprising machine readable data under a plurality of distinct optical conditions during a single illumination session; and
- instructions to derive a multispectral image of the machine readable data from light received by the imaging system after scattering from the machine readable data for each of multiple of the plurality of distinct optical conditions.
28. The system according to claim 27, wherein the object is an inanimate object.
29. The system according to claim 27 further comprising determining whether the object is fraudulent by analyzing the multispectral image.
30. The system according to claim 29 further comprising determining whether the object is fraudulent by analyzing the multispectral content of the multispectral image.
31. The system according to claim 27, wherein the machine readable data comprises optically variable machine readable data.
32. A method comprising:
- illuminating machine readable data under a plurality of distinct optical conditions;
- receiving light scattered from the machine readable data separately for each of the plurality of distinct optical conditions; and
- determining whether the machine readable data is fraudulent.
33. The method according to claim 32, wherein the machine readable data is affixed with an inanimate object.
34. The method according to claim 32, wherein the determining whether the machine readable data is fraudulent comprises analyzing the multispectral content of images of the machine readable data.
35. The method according to claim 32, wherein the machine readable data comprises a multispectral feature.
36. The method according to claim 36, wherein the machine readable data comprises a data content portion that is separate from the multispectral feature.
37. The method according to claim 36, wherein the machine readable data comprises a data content portion that includes multispectral features.
38. The method according to claim 32, wherein the machine readable data comprises an optically varying feature.
39. The method according to claim 38, wherein the machine readable data comprises a data content portion that is separate from the optically varying feature.
40. The method according to claim 38, wherein the machine readable data comprises a data content portion that includes optically varying feature.
41. The method according to claim 32 further comprising extracting a message from the machine readable data.
42.-159. (canceled)
Type: Application
Filed: Feb 22, 2010
Publication Date: Sep 30, 2010
Applicant: Lumidigm, Inc. (Albuquerque, NM)
Inventors: Robert K. Rowe (Albuquerque, NM), Philip Scarfo (Carlsbad, CA)
Application Number: 12/660,243
International Classification: G06K 9/00 (20060101);